Papiss Cisse leaves Newcastle to join Shandong Luneng

Newcastle have announced Papiss Cisse has left Newcastle United to join Shandong Luneng in the Chinese Super League.

Cisse joined Newcastle from Freiburg in January 2012 and went on to score 44 goals in 131 games for the club.

The Senegal international striker becomes the latest departure in a summer of upheaval following Newcastle’s relegation from the Premier League.

A statement on the Newcastle website said: “Everyone at St. James’ Park wishes Papiss all the best for the next stage of his career.”

After completing his move, Cisse issued a farewell message to the Newcastle fans, telling the Chronicle: “I want to put on record my thanks and appreciation for Newcastle fans.

“I will never forget them as long as I live and will be back at St James’ Park as a supporter alongside them some day.

“Every goal I scored in that famous No 9 shirt was for them. I hope the team are quickly back in the Premier League.

“We had some great times together and hopefully under Rafa Benitez those times return.”

Rafa Benitez has already released Steven Taylor and Fabricio Coloccini with Andros Townsend joining Crystal Palace for £13 million.

Matz Sels, Dwight Gayle, Matt Ritchie and Jesus Gamez are among the players to arrive at St. James’ Park as Benitez prepares for life in the Championship.

Southampton striker Graziano Pelle has also been linked with a move to Shandong Luneng, who are managed by former Fulham boss Felix Magath.